By Caroline N
Uganda has joined parliamentary leaders from across the continent at the 19th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth Africa Region, a high-level forum focused on strengthening democratic governance, legislative effectiveness, and regional cooperation.
The conference, taking place from 16 to 20 June 2026 at the Emperor’s Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, South Africa, has brought together Speakers and Presiding Officers from Commonwealth African countries to exchange experiences and explore solutions to challenges facing parliamentary institutions.
Uganda’s delegation is led by the Rt Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, Speaker of Parliament, who is participating in discussions aimed at enhancing legislative oversight, accountability, and representation in an increasingly complex governance environment.
The gathering comes at a time when many African countries are seeking to strengthen democratic institutions, improve public trust in governance, and promote inclusive socio-economic development. Key discussions are focusing on parliamentary independence, transparency, citizen participation, gender inclusion, youth engagement, and the use of technology to modernise legislative processes.
Ahead of the conference, Speaker Oboth arrived in South Africa on 15 June 2026 and was received at OR Tambo International Airport by officials from the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria, led by Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Paul Amoru.
During a briefing with officials from the High Commission, the Speaker received updates on the welfare of Ugandans living and working in South Africa, including concerns arising from recent incidents of violence targeting foreign nationals in some parts of the country. The discussions underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Ugandan and South African authorities to safeguard the welfare and interests of Ugandan citizens abroad.
The meeting also explored ways of strengthening support systems for the Ugandan diaspora and enhancing communication between diplomatic missions and Ugandan communities in South Africa.
The Commonwealth Africa Region Speakers’ Conference remains one of the continent’s leading parliamentary forums, providing a platform for legislative leaders to share best practices, build consensus, and promote cooperation on issues affecting governance and development.
The outcomes of the conference are expected to contribute to future parliamentary initiatives across the Commonwealth Africa Region and reinforce the role of legislatures in promoting accountability, democratic governance, and sustainable development.
As deliberations continue in Johannesburg, Uganda joins fellow Commonwealth African nations in reaffirming the importance of strong parliamentary institutions in advancing peace, stability, and inclusive growth across the continent.